The Minister of Environment and Sustainable Development, Ms. Massouda Bint Baham Ould Mohamed Laghdaf, presided over the launch of the Blue March this Saturday at kilometer 28 on the Nouakchott-Rosso road, near the Atlantic Ocean. This event was organized by the ministry in collaboration with the Mauritanian Organization for the Environment, a local NGO.
Objectives of the Blue March
This two-day initiative aims to raise awareness about the importance of preserving the coastal environment and combating marine pollution. It seeks to mobilize stakeholders to protect coastal spaces rich in ecological resources and biodiversity while encouraging youth, fishermen, and coastal residents to engage in addressing growing environmental challenges.
Statement by the Minister of Environment and Sustainable Development
In her speech, the minister praised this initiative, highlighting that the strong participation of youth and women reflects a growing awareness of the need to protect Mauritania’s coastline from all forms of marine and coastal pollution.
She emphasized that this march underscores the vulnerability of the coastal ecosystem to climate change and various environmental threats. Given that Mauritania’s coastline stretches over 700 km, she stressed that its preservation requires collective action involving administrative authorities, local elected officials, civil society organizations, and economic and social actors to ensure the protection of marine biodiversity.
The minister added that this initiative aligns with the environmental vision of President Mohamed Ould Cheikh El Ghazouani, which focuses on citizen awareness and promoting sustainable development in coastal areas. She also expressed her gratitude to youth from the civil service, the national police, and the Tevragh Zeina team for their participation in the march.
Remarks from Partners and Organizers
For his part, Mr. Ahmedou Senhouri, Executive Director of the Regional Partnership for the Conservation of Marine and Coastal Areas in West Africa, praised this unique initiative, stating that it highlights the significant environmental challenges facing Mauritania’s coastal regions. He emphasized that this action actively contributes to improving public health and environmental preservation.
Meanwhile, Mauritanian filmmaker Abdrahmane Sissako, President of the Mauritanian Organization for the Environment, emphasized the civic dimension of the Blue March, describing it as a movement for environmental health and safety. He noted that this initiative embodies national aspirations for the preservation of coastal biodiversity and the protection of marine ecosystems, which face multiple ecological challenges.
Official Presence and Institutional Support
The launch ceremony was attended by Mr. Ahmedna Ould Sidi Ab, Wali of Trarza, Mr. Moulaye Ibrahim Ould Moulaye Ibrahim, Secretary-General of the Ministry of Environment, along with several ministry officials, representatives of regional organizations, civil society bodies, and actors committed to environmental advocacy.
Source: Mauritanian News Agency
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